🎶 Hey Neighbor - Let’s Jam

Hi! I’m Tess, a local musician and educator offering private, in-home music lessons in your neighborhood.

If you found one of my posters, you're in my zone for in-person lessons—and I’d love to work with you or your child!

🎓 What I Teach

  • Guitar (acoustic + electric)

  • Piano (beginner to intermediate)

  • Voice (pop, rock, indie, and more)

  • Ukulele

  • Songwriting & Music Theory

  • Music Production (GarageBand, Logic, etc.)

Lessons are open to kids, teens, and adults, and are tailored to each student’s goals, learning style, and interests.

About Me

My Approach

As a teacher, I believe in learning through play, exploration, and curiosity. I combine traditional methods with modern tools—using books, apps, games, and improvisation exercises to make learning music both structured and fun. I also keep in mind what’s developmentally appropriate, especially for younger learners, and create a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to express themselves.

A Bit About Me

When I’m not teaching, you’ll find me writing songs, playing shows, or working as a session musician. I’ve toured nationally as a guitarist, vocalist, and keyboardist, and have recorded in over 10 professional studios. I bring that real-world musical experience into my lessons to help students feel inspired and connected to the music they love.

Credentials

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Music from Seattle University and over 15 years of experience teaching students of all ages. I’ve taught at Mode Music Studios, Kaleidoscope School of Music, Paper Moon Music, and The Guitar Store in Seattle, as well as in Seattle Public School afterschool programs. I’ve led group songwriting classes, coached at Girls Rock Camp, and performed as a guest artist for youth music events.

As a solo artist and session musician, my songwriting and performances have been recognized by national and international publications. I bring that real-world experience into every lesson—helping students build strong musical foundations while having fun and expressing themselves creatively

OUR PARTNERS

Lesson Pricing

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Lesson Pricing •

  • Single Lesson

    • 45 minutes – $60
    • 60 minutes – $80
    Great for flexible scheduling or occasional sessions.

  • 4 Lesson Bundle

    • Four 45-minute lessons – $230 ($57.50/lesson)
    • Four 60-minute lessons – $310 ($77.50/lesson)

  • 8 Lesson Bundle

    • Eight 45-minute lessons – $450 ($56.25/lesson)
    • Eight 60-minute lessons – $600 ($75/lesson)

Contact us.

(425) 274-6706

Call or text about current availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • I work with students of all ages! I’ve taught kids as young as 5 and adults well into their 70s. Each lesson is tailored to the student’s age, experience level, and learning style.

    For students younger than 8 years old, I recommend having siblings take back-to-back 30 minute lessons, and/or having a parent take a 15 minute lesson at the end to hit the 45 minute at-home lesson minimum.

  • Yes—for in-home lessons, each student needs access to their own instrument. I’m happy to recommend affordable starter options for guitars, keyboards, mics, and more.

  • Yes! I offer a one-time 45-minute trial lesson for $60, so we can meet, set goals, and see if it’s a good fit—no commitment required.

  • You can pay per lesson or in discounted bundles of 4 or 8. I accept Venmo, Zelle, PayPal, or cash. Payment is due before each lesson or at the start of your bundle.

    Venmo is @tessofthewest

    Paypal is @tessfreedel

    Zelle is 425 274 6706

  • Please give at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Late cancellations may be charged the full lesson fee to protect my scheduling and travel time.

  • At this time, I’m focused on in-person lessons only, but can accommodate the occasional virtual lesson for student travel and illness.

    If you're outside my travel zone and interested in virtual options, feel free to reach out—I may have availability in the future.

    If you are a former student who lives far away from me feel free to reach out and I will see what I can do to make it work :)

  • Most students reserve a regular weekly time slot, which ensures consistency and makes planning easier for everyone. If you purchase a bundle, it must be used within:

    • 4-lesson bundles: valid for 6 weeks

    • 8-lesson bundles: valid for 10 weeks
      I’m flexible when life gets busy—just keep in touch so we can stay on track!

  • If you or your child is feeling unwell—especially with cold, flu, or COVID symptoms—please reach out as soon as possible to reschedule. I’m happy to offer one free makeup lesson per bundle for illness-related absences, as long as you give me at least 4 hours’ notice.

    For last-minute cancellations due to illness (under 4 hours’ notice), the lesson may be forfeited to help protect my time and travel. Thanks for keeping both of us healthy and safe!

  • We’ll schedule lessons via text, which keeps things quick and flexible. Once we confirm a time, I’ll follow up with a Google Calendar invite that includes all the important details—location, time, and any notes you need.

    If you're using a lesson bundle, I’ll also use the calendar invite to track how many lessons you've used and how many are left. I may include brief lesson notes or updates right in the calendar description so we’re both on the same page.

    This system helps us stay organized and keeps your music journey running smoothly!